Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

You must have a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number before you apply for your Student visa.

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What is a CAS?

A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is a unique reference number issued by the University. It confirms your offer of study and is required for your Student visa application.

Get a CAS (new applicants)

To get your CAS, you must:

What documents you need to provide

Documents for all students

  • Passport: a colour copy of the passport you will use for your visa application
  • Qualification documents: certificates or transcripts for the qualifications your offer is based on (with certified translations if not in English)

Additional requirements

  • English language evidence: if required, show that you meet the English language requirements of your offer.
  • Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS): if your course and nationality require it, you must get an ATAS certificate before your CAS is issued. You do not need to send it to us.
  • Academic progression information: if you previously studied in the UK on a Student visa.
  • Under-18 declaration form: complete this if you are under 18 when you submit your visa application.
  • Some applicants may be asked to submit their qualifications to Qualification Check. The Admissions team will send you instructions if you are required to do this. If applicable, verification must be completed before a CAS is issued.

Check your CAS details

When you receive your CAS, check that these details are correct before applying for your visa:

  • personal details
  • course details
  • tuition fees paid
  • ATAS certificate requirement
  • financial sponsorship details (if the University is your sponsor).

How long your CAS lasts

Your CAS is valid for 6 months. You must apply for your visa within this time.

If your CAS is more than 6 months old, your visa application may be rejected.

If you are a new student, you must arrive in the UK before your course start date (or latest arrival date). Your CAS may be withdrawn if you do not arrive in time.

Check how long visa applications take in your country, so you can apply in time.

Get a new CAS (current students)

If your course or course end date changes, you must get a new CAS.

For guidance on requesting a new CAS and applying for a new visa, contact the Student Visa Advice Team.

You may need to apply from your home country in some cases.

If your visa application is rejected or you decide not to use your CAS, contact the Student Visa Advice Team to let them know

Unpaid fees and your CAS

Any unpaid tuition fees may stop the University from issuing your CAS.

If you have a question about paying University tuition fees visit the money advice web pages.

Who to contact

If you have issues with your CAS, contact the team managing your application: